Business Information and Analytics Systems (MSc) at University College Cork

The MSc in Business Information and Analytics Systems provides students with a portfolio of business and analytical methods for solving problems and supporting decision making. The MSc BIAS provides students with a specialism in Business Analytics as well as an extensive knowledge of business and IS concepts. At the core of this programme is a selection of topics covering cloud technologies, Business Intelligence and Business Analytics, IT performance management, data management and  IT project management.  A research project will allow student groups to explore and develop an IT solution to a specific business problem in an area specific to the Business Information and Analytics area. 

The MSc in Business Information and Analytic Systems degree offers a specialisation in Business Analytics with modules such as:

• Design thinking for the Business Analyst
• Business Data Strategy
• Data Visualisation
• Business Analytics and Business Intelligence
• Cognitive Decision Making and DSS

These modules will allow students to acquire the skills to mine and analyse data in ways that will enable more informed decision making and result in better outcomes for the organisation. How organisations capture, create and use data is changing the way we work and live. Businesses have more data readily available than ever before and are aware of the need to understand the underlying messages that are held within their data. However, discovering and identifying the underlying message requires a higher level of thinking and analysis.

Additionally, the course offers a curriculum of core IS modules including: 

• Cloud Technology
• Data Acquisition and Management
• Project Management
• IT and Organisational Performance
• Enterprise Business Processes

These core modules provide students with the technical skills and techniques needed by organisations to explore organisational issues and support decision-making within a business context.  These skills are essential in any organisation where IT is integral to the success of the business. A group research project facilitates students in the practical application of the Information Systems and Business analytical skills that are acquired during the programme.

Why Choose This Course

Students develop a skill set appropriate for roles such as business analyst, data analyst, consultant, project management and IT manager.  This course is strongly associated with business where data and information plays a critical part.  Active input on course content and specialisms is continuously incorporated from multinational industry leaders. The MSc BIAS considers the technical enabling capability of IS and the behavioural aspects of management that support informed decision making. The course places an emphasis on design thinking and a cognitive approach to decision making.

Skills and Careers Information

What can I do after I graduate with an MSc Business Information and Analytics Systems? Consultancy firms, financial services firms, manufacturing and services organisations all require graduates who are data savvy and who can analyse data and draw conclusions. The MSc BIAS will focus on the development of these skill sets. Typical roles include Business Analyst, Business Analytics specialist, Data specialist, Consultant, Project Manager, Operations Research and IT Manager.

Occupations associated with this MSc Business Information and Analytics Systems course: Consultancy firms, financial services firms, manufacturing and services organisations.